Corn Pie

Corn Pie Recipe from Barbados with Cheese and Evaporated Milk

Region / culture: Barbados | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 40 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

Corn pie is a delicious and comforting dish that combines the sweetness of corn with the richness of cheese and the savory flavors of onion and sweet pepper. This recipe is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering, as it is easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.

History

Corn pie is a traditional dish in many Caribbean countries, where corn is a staple ingredient in the local cuisine. The recipe has been passed down through generations, with each family adding their own twist to make it unique. It is often served at special occasions and celebrations, as it is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings people together.

Ingredients

1 tbsp of sugar
1.5 tbsp of sifted flour
0.5 lb (227 g) of grated Anchor cheese
1 tin of corn (drained)
0.5 tin of evaporated milk
1 egg
1 onion (finely chopped)
0.5 sweet pepper (finely chopped)
1 tbsp of butter

How to prepare

Melt the butter in a pan and add the flour, stirring to avoid lumps.
Gradually add the milk while stirring to avoid lumps, then add the grated cheese.
Mix in the corn and sugar, and add the onion.
Lastly, add the egg to bind the ingredients together.
Bake in the oven at 50°F (10°C) for 35 to 40 minutes.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Mix in some diced tomatoes or bell peppers for added freshness.
Top the pie with breadcrumbs or crushed crackers for a crunchy texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the corn well before adding it to the mixture, as excess liquid can make the pie soggy.

- Be sure to finely chop the onion and sweet pepper to ensure even distribution of flavors throughout the pie.

- Use a good quality cheese, such as Anchor cheese, for a rich and creamy texture.

- Allow the pie to cool slightly before serving, as it will be easier to slice and serve.

Serving Suggestions

Corn pie can be served as a main dish with a side salad or steamed vegetables. It can also be served as a side dish with grilled meats or seafood.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to preheat the oven before baking the pie to ensure even cooking.

- Use a deep dish pie pan to prevent the filling from overflowing.

- Cover the pie with foil halfway through baking to prevent the top from burning.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use fresh or frozen corn instead of canned corn.

- Any type of cheese can be used in place of Anchor cheese.

- Coconut milk can be used instead of evaporated milk for a dairy-free version.

Make Ahead Tips

Corn pie can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated until ready to bake. Simply cover the pie with plastic wrap and store in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the pie with fresh herbs, such as parsley or chives, for a pop of color. Serve the pie on a decorative platter for a beautiful presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Corn pie pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. It also goes well with a light beer or a fruity cocktail.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover corn pie can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the pie in a preheated oven at 350°F (180°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of corn pie contains approximately 300 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of corn pie contains approximately 25 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of corn pie contains approximately 15 grams of fats.

Proteins

Each serving of corn pie contains approximately 10 grams of proteins.

Vitamins and minerals

Corn pie is a good source of vitamin A, vitamin C, calcium, and iron.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cheese, milk, butter) and eggs.

Summary

Corn pie is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, proteins, vitamins, and minerals. It is a filling and satisfying dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering.

Summary

Corn pie is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a family dinner or a potluck gathering. With its rich and creamy texture, savory flavors, and sweet corn, it is sure to be a hit with everyone who tries it. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of the Caribbean in your own home.

How did I get this recipe?

I distinctly remember the first time I saw this recipe for Corn Pie. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl. I had been helping my mother in the kitchen, as I always loved to do. We were preparing for a family gathering, and my mother was busy cooking up a storm. As I watched her move around the kitchen with such grace and confidence, I couldn't help but feel inspired.

As the day went on, my mother pulled out an old, tattered recipe book that had been passed down through generations in our family. She flipped through the pages with a look of nostalgia on her face, and then she came across a recipe for Corn Pie. I had never heard of such a dish before, but my mother's eyes lit up as she explained that it was a family favorite that had been passed down from her grandmother.

My curiosity piqued, I watched intently as my mother gathered the ingredients and began to prepare the dish. The scent of butter and corn filled the kitchen, and I couldn't wait to taste the final product. As the Corn Pie baked in the oven, I danced around the kitchen with excitement, eager to try something new and delicious.

When the Corn Pie finally emerged from the oven, golden and bubbling, my mother cut a slice and handed it to me. I took a bite, and my taste buds were instantly transported to a world of flavors and textures unlike anything I had ever experienced before. The sweet corn melded perfectly with the creamy custard, and the buttery crust added a delightful crunch. It was a revelation, and I knew that I had to learn how to make this dish for myself.

Over the years, I watched my mother make Corn Pie countless times, and I slowly began to memorize the recipe. I learned how to pick the freshest corn, how to make the perfect custard, and how to bake the pie to golden perfection. As I practiced and honed my skills in the kitchen, I made the recipe my own, adding my own special touches and tweaks to make it truly unique.

But my journey to mastering the art of Corn Pie didn't stop there. As I grew older, I began to seek out other recipes and techniques from friends, neighbors, and even strangers. I attended cooking classes, read countless cookbooks, and experimented in my own kitchen, always striving to improve and refine my skills.

One day, while visiting a farmer's market in a nearby town, I struck up a conversation with an elderly woman who was selling fresh produce. We chatted about our shared love of cooking, and she mentioned that she had a recipe for Corn Pie that had been passed down through her family for generations. My ears perked up, and I begged her to share the recipe with me.

The woman smiled warmly and agreed, pulling out a worn, stained piece of paper from her apron pocket. She handed it to me with a twinkle in her eye, and as I read through the ingredients and instructions, I felt a sense of excitement and anticipation. This recipe was different from my mother's, with unique spices and flavors that I had never thought to use before.

I rushed home with the recipe clutched in my hand, eager to try it out. As I gathered the ingredients and began to cook, I felt a sense of connection to the woman at the farmer's market and to all the generations of cooks who had come before me. I poured my heart and soul into the dish, infusing it with love and care, just as my ancestors had done.

When the Corn Pie emerged from the oven, steaming and fragrant, I knew that I had created something truly special. The flavors were bold and complex, the textures rich and satisfying. I took a bite and closed my eyes, savoring every mouthful as memories of my past and dreams for the future mingled together in a beautiful symphony of taste.

As I sit here now, reflecting on my journey to mastering the art of Corn Pie, I am filled with gratitude for all the people and experiences that have shaped me into the cook I am today. Each recipe, each technique, each story has enriched my life in ways I could never have imagined. And as I continue to cook and create in my kitchen, I know that the spirit of my ancestors lives on in every dish I prepare.